Hair. Throughout history in many cultures long hair has been seen as a symbol of beauty and femininity. However, hair is not the only thing that defines us. We are beautiful with or without it. We are beautiful no matter how it looks. Sadly, Tik Tok has not been a welcoming place when it comes to the hair community. Here is what is wrong.
Short Hair
Today in many African American communities, long hair is strongly valued and seen as the most beautiful type of hair. This beauty standard has made it to the Tik Tok comments section of many videos. People feel the need to comment on the length of complete strangers’ hair, and make them seem less than if their hair is short, or needs a big trim. However, what is wrong with short hair? Why is short hair or no hair not beautiful? Many people struggle with growing out their hair and this beauty standard has made many feel less than, or even feel pressured to grow their hair out when they don’t want to.
Processed hair
Back in the 90’s and 2000’s getting a relaxer was all the rage. Everyone’s hair was stick straight and many have stories of burning off their hair from at home relaxers. However, recently, natural hair has become popular. That is totally okay, but what is not is the negative comments left under the videos of people getting relaxers at the hairdresser. Natural hair is absolutely beautiful. But it is okay if you decide to get a relaxer because you like straight hair. Also people seem to quickly forget how the demonization of curly and coily hair has really affected people. Not everyone is ready or brave enough to make the steps to stop using relaxers yet and that is okay!
Heat-damaged hair
Many people like to curl their hair, use a blow dryer, or straighten it. It is totally okay to want to change up your look and have fun! But again, judgement of people who use heat tools on Tik Tok is rampant. Heat is okay in moderation and people don’t have to be perfect all the time! Heat will not kill you with a little heat protectant! The judgement needs to end because it just leads to self-consciousness and anxiety.
Wigs and other protective styles
Another thing black women get judged for on Tik Tok is wearing wigs and extensions. Wearing a protective style does not mean you don’t have hair. It just means you want to change up your look in a safe way or protect your hair. Also, the talent it takes to install a wig or do braids is insane and should be praised. Protective styles are not just black women “trying to be white women.” Stop comparing us.
The internet can be a great place. It brings people together from different locations and walks of life. But when racism, colorism, sexism, and bullying come in it becomes a different place. Decide to take a different road and comment something nice under the next video you see.